A Few Facts about Mysore

Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India. It is the headquarters of the Mysore district and the Mysore division and lies about 91 miles Southwest of Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. The city is spread across an area of 128.42 50 square miles and is situated at the base of the Chamundi Hills.

Mysore is famous for the festivities that take place during the Dasara festival when the city receives a large number of tourists. (So I'll be one of many!) Mysore also lends its name to the Mysore mallige (a variety of jasmine unique to Mysore...the blossoms are threaded into garlands and worn as hair ornaments by women), the Mysore style of painting, the sweet dish Mysore Pak, the Mysore Peta (a traditional silk turban) and the garment called the Mysore silk saree (these are very beautiful and priced according to how much gold thread is included in the fabric). Mysore was also rated the second cleanest city in India in 2010 and the cleanest in Karnataka. (Since this is my first trip to India, I'm quite thankful for this little fact.)

Dasara usually falls in the month of September or October. It is a celebration of victory of truth over evil. The city of Mysore has a long tradition of celebrating the Dasara festival and the festivities there are an elaborate affair. (This is a 10 day festival that culminates in a royal processional, the lighting of the Mysore Palace, similar to the way we light houses during the winter holidays, and fireworks. There are also many Karnatik music concerts that are performed over the 10 day period...perfect for a visiting musician!)

In 2011, Dasara will culminate on October 6! I think this will be an amazing time to be in Mysore!

Descriptions of Mysore transferred from Wikipedia.